Top MBA Colleges to Apply After XAT Exam: The XAT, or Xavier Aptitude Test, is one of the most recognized MBA entrance exams in India, accepted by more than 250 prestigious B-schools across the country. Following the release of your XAT 2026 results, the optimal plan is to choose B-schools that correspond with your percentile range, career aspirations, and specialisation interests.
Latest Updates – Check Live CAT 2025 Exam Analysis Here
Also Check Slot-wise CAT Live Analysis Here –
Table of Contents
Top MBA Colleges Accepting XAT 2026 Scores
There are more than 250 colleges in India that accept XAT 2026 scores for their MBA and PGDM programs, including:
1. XLRI Jamshedpur
XLRI, one of India’s most esteemed business schools, provides premier programs in Business Management (BM) and Human Resource Management (HRM). The PGDM (HRM) at XLRI Jamshedpur is one of the most prestigious HR programs in India, and is often regarded as the best HR course in Asia-Pacific. It focuses on building future-ready HR leaders who can align people strategy with business goals. XLRI sets the bar for XAT aspirants and is renowned for its outstanding academic excellence and placements. The NIRF ranking 2025 of XLRI is 10th among the top 100 management institutes in India.
2. MICA, Ahmedabad
MICA, renowned for its expertise in marketing and communications, accepts XAT results for admission to its flagship PGDM programs. It ranked 33rd in the NIRF ranking 2025. It’s more suitable for anyone interested in brand management and media strategy. While MICA accepts XAT scores, candidates must appear for MICAT, which is conducted twice a year, followed by a GE and PI rounds.
3. IMT Ghaziabad
IMT Ghaziabad is a distinguished private business school that is renowned for its General Management programs. It offers good corporate exposure and placements and is ranked 30th in the NIRF ranking 2025. Along with being India’s leading private B-schools, it is also known for its strong focus on marketing, analytics, and leadership development.
4. XIM University, Bhubaneswar
Among the top 100 management institutes, XIM University ranked 45th as per the NIRF Ranking 2025. It provides a diverse selection of management programs that have a strong track record of successful placements. It is a favored option for candidates who achieve a score of approximately 90 percentile in XAT.
5. Goa Institute of Management (GIM)
GIM has established a robust reputation for high-quality education, sustainable business methods, and an exceptional student experience. It is optimal for individuals aiming for the 85th to 90th percentile in the XAT exam.
6. TAPMI, Manipal
T.A. Pai Management Institute (TAPMI), Manipal, is one of India’s premier management institutes, consistently ranked among the top B-schools. Renowned for its industry-oriented pedagogy, live projects, and leadership development programs, TAPMI offers specialisations in Marketing, Finance, HR, and Operations. It accepts CAT, XAT, and GMAT scores.
7. Great Lakes Institute of Management
Data science and analytics are the primary focus of Great Lakes’ one-year and two-year programs. It ranked 37th as per the NIRF ranking 2025. Candidates are shortlisted based on their academic profile and XAT percentile.
Interested in knowing more about B-schools admitting without CAT, read Top MBA colleges in India without CAT Exam.
Top MBA Colleges Accepting 90 Percentile in XAT Exam 2026
After scoring a percentile that is above 90, candidates can aim at some of the most prestigious B-schools that our country has to offer, like XLRI Jamshedpur, XIM University Bhubaneswar, MICA Ahmedabad, IMT Ghaziabad, and IMI New Delhi.
| MBA Colleges | MBA Fee (in Lakhs) | Avg. Placement (in Lakhs) |
| XLRI Jamshedpur | ₹28.06 L | ₹31.08 LPA |
| XIM University | ₹26.00 L | ₹26.00 LPA |
| MICA Ahmedabad | ₹26.00 L | ₹19.22 LPA |
| IMI New Delhi | ₹23.54 L | ₹17.19 LPA |
| IMT Ghaziabad | ₹16.07 L | ₹17.35 LPA |
These institutions are acknowledged for their strong ties to the industry, leading recruiters, and expertise in Human Resources, Marketing, and Business Management. XLRI is the premier business school for XAT candidates targeting a percentile of 95 or higher.
Disclaimer: The information provided above is for general reference purposes only. Users are advised to verify all details from the official website or authorised sources before making any decisions or taking action.
Top MBA Colleges Accepting 80 Percentile in XAT Exam 2026
Aspirants with an XAT percentile of 80–90 have access to numerous high-ROI institutions that provide exceptional placements and a robust academic curriculum.
| MBA Colleges | MBA Fee (in Lakhs) | Avg. Placement (in Lakhs) |
| FORE School of Management, New Delhi | ₹16.80 L | ₹16.01 LPA |
| TAPMI, Manipal | ₹18.00 L | ₹13.99 LPA |
| GIM, Goa | ₹15.13 L | ₹14.81 LPA |
| Great Lakes, Chennai | ₹21.63 L | ₹15.00 LPA |
| K J Somaiya, Mumbai | ₹22.32 L | – |
| Welingkar, Mumbai | ₹14.00 L | ₹11.70 LPA |
The leading MBA colleges that accept an 80th percentile in XAT 2026 are perfect for students seeking mid-tier, respected institutions known for excellent placements in consulting, analytics, and marketing.
Also Read: Top 10 Private MBA Colleges In India
Top MBA Colleges Accepting 70 Percentile in XAT Exam 2026
Candidates achieving scores within the 70–80 percentile range can still discover outstanding opportunities that provide substantial ROI, industry exposure, and specialised training.
| B-School | State |
| BIMTECH, Greater Noida | Uttar Pradesh |
| IFMR GSB, KREA University | Andhra Pradesh |
| Great Lakes Institute of Management, Gurgaon | Haryana |
| Woxsen University, Hyderabad | Andhra Pradesh |
| MDI Murshidabad | West Bengal |
| JAGSOM, Bangalore | Karnataka |
| Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida | Uttar Pradesh |
| XIME, Bangalore | Karnataka |
| CIMP, Patna | Bihar |
| Rajagiri Business School, Kochi | Kerala |
| IMI Kolkata | West Bengal |
| Indus Business Academy (IBA), Bangalore | Karnataka |
| SIES School of Business Studies, Navi Mumbai | Maharashtra |
| Jaipuria Institute of Management, Lucknow | Uttar Pradesh |
| IMI Bhubaneswar | Odisha |
| Amrita School of Business, Coimbatore | Tamil Nadu |
| Thiagarajar School of Management (TSM), Madurai | Tamil Nadu |
These MBA institutions accepting a 70th percentile in XAT 2026 are suitable for individuals seeking economical tuition fees, robust placements, and extensive regional connections.
Key Factors To Select The Best MBA College Through XAT
Below are a few things to keep in mind before you pick any B-school through XAT:
- Cutoff Percentiles: Always check out the expected percentiles required to crack a particular B-school and work hard to get it in XAT 2026.
- Fee vs ROI: Keeping your finances in check is also important before picking a B-school. Make sure you look into whether your investment is worth spending in relation to the returns you are getting.
- Program Selection: Choose the B-school that offers the program you desire, and even better if it is well known for your area of specialisation, such as Marketing, Finance, HR, or Analytics.
- Location & Exposure: Always pick a well-reputed B-school, as it will provide you with good exposure and networking opportunities.
Conclusion
Finally, after the XAT 2026 results come out, candidates should focus on choosing colleges based on their percentile score, career goals, academic history, and current financial situation. Early application and thorough preparation for the group discussion and personal interview might enhance the likelihood of admission to the preferred B-School.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is XLRI the only B-school that accepts XAT?
A: XLRI is not the only B-school that accepts XAT scores. Several other B-schools in India, including IMT Ghaziabad, TAPMI, and others, also accept XAT scores as part of their selection process.
Q2: What percentile is safe for institutes like GIM or TAPMI?
A: A score in the range of 85–90 percentile gives a good chance at GIM, TAPMI, and similar tier-2 private B-schools.
Q3: Can I use my XAT score for CAT colleges?
A: No. On the other hand, most institutions accept results from both CAT and XAT independently, so you can submit your application through either method.
